Pelvic reconstruction with omental and VRAM flaps: anatomy, surgical technique, normal postoperative findings, and complications

Abstract

Soft-tissue reconstruction of the pelvis with vascularized tissue flaps has become an increasingly common procedure. The types of flaps and the indications for their use vary, but all flap procedures are performed with the goal of transferring tissue from a donor site to a recipient site to restore form and function, obliterate dead space, and create an environment favorable to wound healing. Oncologic surgeries, including total pelvic exenteration and abdominoperineal resection, are the leading indications for pelvic reconstruction. The pedicle flaps most commonly used for pelvic reconstruction following these oncologic interventions are the vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (VRAM) and the omental pedicle flap. Familiarity with the surgical techniques used for pelvic reconstruction with these flaps is crucial for the accurate interpretation of cross-sectional imaging studies, allowing the radiologist to distinguish between normal postoperative findings and complications or recurrent disease.